alprazolam
a BENZODIAZEPINES used to relieve anxiety and as a sedative. It is administered by mouth; side-effects include drowsiness and lightheadedness.
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks). Alprazolam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking alprazolam affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether alprazolam can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about alprazolam and fertility, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking alprazolam increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. According to the fact sheet, it is unlikely that alprazolam would greatly increase the chance of miscarriage. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information in the context of your own situation.
Does taking alprazolam increase the risk of birth defects?
About 3 out of 100 babies are born with a birth defect in any pregnancy. Most studies on first-trimester alprazolam use have not reported an increased chance of birth defects, although two studies based on prescription records suggested a higher chance of heart defects. Overall, an increased chance of birth defects has not been proven, and this is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Can taking alprazolam during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Some studies have suggested that alprazolam might increase the chance of preterm delivery (before week 37) and low birth weight (under 2500g), while other studies have not found this association. Additionally, benzodiazepine use during pregnancy can sometimes cause temporary newborn symptoms such as trouble regulating temperature, breathing difficulties, low energy, poor feeding, or vomiting, which may last several days. Letting your healthcare providers know you take alprazolam helps them prepare appropriate care for the baby.
Can taking alprazolam during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
Studies have not been done to see whether alprazolam can cause behavior or learning issues for the child. Because this question hasn't been well studied, it's a good topic to bring up with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking alprazolam?
Alprazolam does pass into breast milk. The fact sheet notes that breastfeeding while taking alprazolam is possible, though a different medication might be preferred, and the product label recommends against use while breastfeeding; the benefits of treating your condition and breastfeeding may outweigh possible risks. If a baby shows symptoms such as being overly sleepy, poor feeding, or poor weight gain, contact the child's healthcare provider, and discuss your individual situation with your own provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
alprazolam